NYCFC announces signing of Numancia defender Alexander Callens

For the better part of two weeks, the rumors mounted. Yesterday, Patrick Vieira all but confirmed it. And today, it’s official: Alexander Callens is New York City FC’s newest player.

He arrives on a free transfer from Spanish second division side CD Numancia, where he made 40 total appearances. A left-footed center back, Callens is a full Peru international estimated at a market value of €400,000 by Transfermarkt.

“I’m really happy to welcome Alexander to the squad. He’s an international defender with the characteristics we look for in his position,’’ NYCFC gaffer Patrick Vieira said in the club’s official release. “On top of this, he’s somebody who is hungry for success in his career, so I’m looking forward to him arriving here in Florida to train with us and to working with him.”

Added sporting director Claudio Reyna: “We are excited to add a tall, quick, strong defender who we believe will fit into our style of play and is motivated to get started with our club.”

Of course, Hudson River Blue is most excited about what the player himself had to say:

Lemme see them claws, Five Boroughs!